Oomuro-ke: Dear Sisters

I loved it right from the get-go. It's all about these little everyday situations that depict the Sisters' lives, offering a real soul-soothing experience. I've always been wary of spin-offs focusing on secondary comedic characters because they usually spell disaster. But this one's a notable exception. Unlike other "failed" attempts, this spin-off doesn't revolve around Sakurako. Instead, it takes us on a journey through the sisters' lives, sparing us from the fatigue of seeing Sakurako's over-the-top antics over and over again.

What sets this work apart is its focus on the iyashikei genre, a genre aimed at healing the soul with its tranquility and simplicity. Here, ... the quirks of the original work, Yuru Yuri, take a backseat, almost disappearing altogether, to make way for a serene and comforting experience. Following the lives of Onee-chan, Nadeshiko, and the imouto, Hanako-sama, is like taking a deep breath after a tiring day. It's an invitation to savor life's little moments, to unwind, and find peace in the mundane. All in all, this spin-off is a true embodiment of iyashikei at its finest.

One of the sweetest movie I've seen in 2024.

Oomuro-ke: Dear Sisters finally gives us a look at the Oomuro sisters, their daily lives and close bond together. I wish the movie were at least 2 hours long, 45 minutes just ain't enough. But for the short limited amount of time this movie was given, it did an excellent job of portraying the distinct personalities of the three sisters. The calm and mysterious big sister Nadeshiko, the responsible little Hanako and the ever-energetic Sakurako. It warms my heart just watching them living their life, doing simple things and hanging out with friends.

Overall, a great ... addtion to the beloved franchise Yuru Yuri. I couldn't wait to watch its sequel, Oomuro-ke: Dear Friends. And I'm sure it will be just as heart-warming as this.

My favorite moment in the post Doga Kobo Yuru Yuri series is that part from San Hai where it's nothing but 5 minutes of silence starring Rise in a Straw Millionaire type segment where she exchanges various goods for other goods. It's not very funny, especially considering how zany the series can get, but I still do enjoy it for how relaxing and how it provides a nice break in the middle of a chaotic wacky series. In that sense, Oomuro-ke serves basically the same purpose. It's not very funny, it's not very crazy, and it lacks a lot of elements that makes Yuru Yuri ... what it is, but that's okay. What you get is just iyashikei, or a more relaxed slice of life with minimal comedy. And to that effect, Oomuro-ke is a great watch. Temper your expectations, dim the lights, and enjoy 40 minutes of relaxing slice of life starring the brat and her two sisters.

7/10